2 things Mykonos is known for = strong winds and party!!
Due to our ferry delay, we arrived in Mykonos port way past noon. After much haggling with the driver, we arrived in Fabrica Bus Station in Mykonos town EUR 10 poorer. Our accomodation, Orpheas Rooms (SGD 100/night), was located strategically en route to Little Venice (the heart of Mykonos). Accommodation was pretty basic with the room size being quite small but service by the staff and the location definitely made our stay memorable. Highly recommend staying in Mykonos town otherwise another option to consider slightly away from town would be Platis Yialos to give you access some of the more popular beaches of Mykonos.
Our accomodation – Orpheas Rooms
Mykonos is known for their white cobbled paths and blue houses. And, the reality wasn’t too far from what I had imagined it to look like. Except, walking through the town makes you feel like you are in a labyrinth. It is said though, the reason for the paths being designed such was that so people could keep themselves hidden from the eyes of pirates.
Things to do
Sunset view from Boni’s Windmill
- Windmills! – The windmills are among the most recognized landmarks of the island and one of the most famous Mykonos attractions. During the 17th and the 18th centuries the island had more than twenty windmills, which contributed to the wheat production, a fundamental element of the island’s economic development. Nowadays seven of them are maintained in decent condition. The most famous ones are the Kato Myloi ( Lower Windmills) that stand on a hill facing the sea. I highly recommend that you walk up the hill in Chora and visit the windmill of Boni that is now a museum. The view from up there is incredible, and it’s also one of the best places to watch the sunset. It’s the perfect location to bring a blanket to sit on and cozy up for the sunset.
- Little venice – One of the most famous and charming areas in Mykonos is called Alefkantra, or Little Venice, as its picturesque setting next to the sea is reminiscent of the Italian city. Sip a cocktail in one of the bars and restaurants in the area to enjoy one of the best sunset views. Kastro’s Bar is home to arguably the most photographed passageways overlooking the water (pictured above).
- Stroll around Mykonos town – Lose yourself in the winding alleys of Mykonos town with the white houses, blue doors and windows and colourful bougainvilleas is a must do in Mykonos.
- Rent an ATV and scoot around the island – ATV rental costed us EUR 25 but we saw so much of Mykonos and had so much fun exploring out of Mykonos town. Highly recommended!
- Take a boat trip to archaeological site of Delos – The island of Delos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important Archaeological Sites in Greece. According to Mythology, it was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The island is now uninhabited, but you can visit it by taking one of the many ships that depart daily from Mykonos. (except Monday when the site is closed) Tickets to the Archaeological site of Delos cost: Full 12€, Reduced 6€. (student cards do work, so bring them along!) While at Delos, it is highly recommended to do a guided tour. Another option to explore Delos would be to do a day cruise out of Mykonos. We booked our full day boat tour (Rhenia Islands + Delos) via Viator. (SGD 350 for 2 of us) Despite the price being quite steep, it was a memorable day out on a boat despite getting severely sun-burnt.
- Nightlife – Mykonos is a party island and has the best nightlife in Greece. You can start your evening by watching the sunset and sipping a cocktail in Little Venice and as the night progresses you can visit the legendary Scandinavian bar, the gay-friendly Jackie O, Cavo Paradiso or you can head in one of the famous beach bars like Nammos, Scorpios and Jackie O on the beach. The options are endless.
- Beaches – The beaches of Mykonos are famous for their golden sand and crystal clear waters. There is a beach for every mood. If you want to party, then Paradise beach and Super Paradise beach is for you. If you want a family-friendly beach, you can head to Kalo Livadi, Elia, Ornos, and Lia. If you are looking for a secluded beach, then you can go to Kapari or Agios Sostis. Now if you are looking for a trendy beach, where all the celebrities go you should go to Psarou. There you will find one of the best beach bars worldwide, Nammos. Beware though it is expensive. If you are looking for a trendy place, then you should go to Paraga beach with the famous beach bar Scorpios or Ftelia beach with the Alemagou beach bar. My personal favourites – Agios Sostis and Kapari! Kapari beach felt like it was we were the only ones in the middle of nowhere (because it literally was that, there was no one else on the beach).
Agios Sostis Beach with Kiki’s Tavern nearby (a good spot for lunch)
Sitting perched on boulders stone’s throw away from Kapari beach (on the top left of picture)
Eat
1. Pepper
Pepper salad with gyroz (EUR 12.50)
Our first meal on the island surely didn’t disappoint as it was recommended by the staff from our accommodation as well as the reviews we read online.
2. Captains
Seafood platter for 2 (EUR 49)
Perched along the waterfront area in the Old port, dinner at Captain’s surely didn’t disappoint. It is an all-day restaurant that serves breakfast, snacks, and lovely Greek food.
3. Courtyard by Thodoris
Lunch view
Dining at Thodori was my personal favourite in my 3 nights on the island. Perfect place for lunch as you can dine with the waves crashing the shore. It was a good mid-day break between hitting the beaches for a good lunch – quinoa salad and fresh fish.
4. Avra Restaurant
Lovely ambience at Avra
Recommended by fellow Singaporeans we met in Mykonos, Avra lived to it’s mark the minute we stepped foot into the restaurant. Their food spread as well as service was top notch. We ordered sesame feta (highly recommended!), roast lamb as well as asian curry chicken (for the asian deprived soul in me). However, meal for 2 costed us EUR 71.50 for the 3 dishes we ordered. Slightly steep but worth a visit before you leave Mykonos if you have some extra dollars to spare.
5. Gioras Wood Medieval Mykonian Bakery
Didn’t have time to stop by as we went in after-hours. But, do check it out if you are around the area.
6. 180 Sunset Bar
Definitely for drinks and not food! Again this was recommended by the staff from Orpheas. Minus the fact it is an uphill slope to conquer, these are notably the best (paid) seats for a view of the island as the sun sets. Be sure to get there as early as 6pm during summer for the better seats.
For more food options, this blog has some other recommendations! Here’s another blog with more details on what to expect on the different beaches in Mykonos as well as other information to help you plan your time in this party island!
After spending 3 nights in this crazy island, we were ready for some down time in Naxos before hitting Santorini and ending off our island adventure in Milos. Keep reading and party it up till then!
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